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《第二十一回 甄士隱反勸賈雨村 甄寶玉變作賈寶玉 Chapter 21: Zhen Shiyin Reverse Advise Jia Yucun, Zhen Baoyu Transform into Jia Baoyu》[View] [Edit] [History]
An aligned English translation of this text is available and can be displayed alongside the source text (instructions). Please note that AI has been used in creating these translations. Translation setting: [None] [English]1  | 第二十一回 甄士隱反勸賈雨村 甄寶玉變作賈寶玉 Chapter Twenty-One: Zhen Shiyin Advises Jia Yucun to Return, Zhen BaoYu Becomes Jia BaoYu |
| 2 | 話說賈政為了寶玉升官，忙了幾天。一日無事，正在複看寶玉的應制詩賦，忽然林之孝送書帖進來，帖上寫著：「世愚侄甄寶玉頓首拜」，夾著他父親安國公甄應嘉一封書信，信內又帶寄一封周親家的信。又有一封寄薛蟠的。賈政不解其故，逐一的看來，方纔知這些緣故。原來甄應嘉信內說的是安撫的事情正在辦著，邊疆上倒不靖起來。虧令親周統制得了一位異人，也是敝同宗，姓甄名士隱的用了道術，征服了蠻戎幾十國之王，一月間傳檄而定。這甄先生為國為民建此絕大功業，弟與令親統制公連名保奏。書後又問賈政、王夫人近好，便將兒子甄寶玉進京補官之事相託。那周瓊信內也將甄士隱建功保舉之事細敘，又說這位甄公便是薛令親的親家，從前未曾往來，未曾敘及。此次弟與安國公保舉他，他卻薦原任順天府尹賈雨村先生自代。無奈雨村先生，經過宦途風波，立志歸隱，不肯出山。甄公三回五次的差人勸駕，那雨村先生就苦苦切切寫了一封懇札來，說他「是得過不是的人，雖則聖仁之朝，恩典寬大，原有棄瑕錄用的一班廢員，但則是聖天子明良一德，忠正盈朝。想起自己從前的許多不是，沒有什麼可以對得君父的。只好往深山窮谷之處潔己修行，過世為人，重新盡忠報國，做出一個完全的人臣。甄先生現立奇功，大名著於朝野。正當幹一番大事，垂名青史，報效王家，非旦聖天子有功必錄，不肯放你還山，而且要奉勸重新婚娶，再立室家。」 It is said that Jia Zheng was busy for several days because of BaoYu's promotion. One day, when there was nothing to do, Jia Zheng was rereading BaoYu's poems and essays composed for the imperial examinations. Suddenly Lin Zhixiao delivered a letter, on which it read: "From your humble nephew Zhen BaoYu, respectfully bowing." It also included a letter from his father, An Guogong Zhen Yingjia, who had enclosed another letter from their relative Zhou. There was also one addressed to Xue Pan. Jia Zheng did not understand the reason, but after reading them one by one, he finally learned of these circumstances. It turned out that in Zhen Yingjia's letter it was said that the matter of pacification was still being handled, and meanwhile unrest had broken out along the frontier. It was fortunate that your relative, Zhou Tongshe, had obtained a remarkable person, who also belonged to our same clan. His name is Zhen Shiyin, and he used Taoist arts to subdue the kings of dozens of barbarian states; within one month, he issued proclamations and pacified them all. This Master Zhen has achieved such an extraordinary feat for the country and its people, so my brother and your relative General Tongshe jointly recommended him. After the letter, there was also a polite inquiry about Jia Zheng and Madam Wang's recent well-being, and he entrusted them with the matter of his son Zhen BaoYu coming to the capital for an official appointment. In his letter, Zhou Qiong also elaborated in detail about Master Zhen Shiyin's meritorious deeds and recommendation, adding that this Master Zhen was the father-in-law of your relative Xue. They had never previously communicated or discussed such matters. This time, my brother and An Guogong recommended him, but he instead recommended the former Shuntian Fu Yin Jia Yucun as his own replacement. Unfortunately, Master Yucun, having experienced the ups and downs of officialdom, had resolved to retire from public life and refused to come out of seclusion. Master Zhen repeatedly sent people to urge him, and so Master Yucun wrote a most earnest letter, saying that he was "a man who had committed wrongs but not merits. Although this is an age of the sage's benevolence with generous favors, there are indeed some discarded officials who have been reemployed despite their past faults; yet it is precisely because His Majesty the Sage Emperor embodies one virtue and goodness, and loyalty and integrity fill the court." Thinking of his many past misdeeds, he felt there was nothing with which he could repay his sovereign. He had no choice but to go deep into the mountains and remote valleys, purify himself through cultivation, live a life of virtue, and once again serve his country with loyalty, becoming a truly complete subject. Master Zhen has now achieved remarkable feats, and his great reputation is well known throughout the court and countryside. He is just about to accomplish great deeds, leave a name in history, and serve the royal family. Not only will His Majesty the Sage Emperor surely record his merits and not allow you to return to the mountains, but he also intends to urge you to remarry, establish a household once again." |
| 3 | 那賈雨村先生寄了此書，便即飄然不知所往。甄公見他說得有理，只得改了道服，努力功名，現在這裏候旨，卻與小弟敘了四門親出來，就便憶起他的英蓮令愛，說就是令姨侄媳名香菱的這一位，順便也託小弟帶一封家書寄他。書尾也再三問賈政、王夫人及探春的近好。也有探春的姑父家書。賈政驚喜不已，一面叫請甄寶玉，一面叫賈璉將書信送進裏面去，告訴王夫人、探春，並薛家蟠大奶奶。賈政便迎接出去。甄寶玉在榮禧堂先遇了賈政，賈政歡喜不盡，隨即拉了手來到書房。甄寶玉打聽得賈家許多喜事，便逐件地稱賀過了。賈政便與他再三讓坐，甄寶玉垂了手打一千，道：「自己的侄兒，要這樣兒，侄兒就不敢，只好站了聽教訓。」 After sending this letter, Master Jia Yucun vanished without a trace. Master Zhen, seeing that he spoke with reason, had no choice but to change his Taoist robes and strive for official success. He is now waiting here for an imperial decree; meanwhile, through my younger brother, we have arranged a four-generation marriage. At the same time, he recalled his beloved daughter Yinglian, saying she was precisely your cousin's daughter-in-law, Madam Xiangling, so he also entrusted my younger brother to carry home a letter for him. At the end of the letter, he repeatedly inquired about Jia Zheng, Madam Wang, and Tanchun's recent well-being. There was also a family letter from Tanchun's maternal uncle. Jia Zheng was greatly surprised and delighted. He immediately ordered Zhen BaoYu to be summoned, while at the same time instructing Jia Lian to deliver the letters inside to inform Madam Wang, Tanchun, as well as Xue Pan's eldest wife. Jia Zheng then went out to greet him. Zhen BaoYu first met Jia Zheng in the Rongxi Hall. Jia Zheng was overjoyed and immediately took his hand to bring him into the study. Zhen BaoYu inquired about many happy events in the Jia family and congratulated them on each one. Jia Zheng repeatedly invited him to sit, but Zhen BaoYu lowered his hands and bowed deeply, saying, "Since I am your nephew, if you treat me this way, then I dare not be seated; I can only stand here and listen to your instructions." |
| 4 | 賈政道：「世兄，什麼話兒，難道我老頭子賓主通不懂得。」甄寶玉一定要請師生坐。賈政終是個道學人兒，自己又倚著長輩，又見他謙讓十分，便道：「罷了，咱們也不用上炕，一塊兒坐著講句話吧。」 Jia Zheng said, "My dear elder brother, what are you saying? Could it be that an old man like me doesn't understand the etiquette between host and guest?" Zhen BaoYu insisted on inviting his teacher to sit. Jia Zheng, being a man of Confucian learning and relying on his senior status, seeing Zhen BaoYu's great humility, said, "Enough. We need not sit on the kang; let us just sit together and have a chat." |
| 5 | 甄寶玉又道：「伯父教訓，侄兒敢不依。但則侄兒論起世交上，原是個侍立的分兒。再則侄兒托了伯父的福庇，能夠補上了部員，伯父就是堂官大人，侄兒也有司官的規矩。」 Zhen BaoYu added, "Uncle's instruction, how could your nephew dare not follow?" "But according to our family ties, I am originally only a junior who should stand by respectfully." "Moreover, I have been fortunate enough to obtain a position in the ministry due to Uncle's protection. Since Uncle is now an official of high rank, as a subordinate officer, I must also follow proper etiquette." |
| 6 | 賈政道：「世兄不用太謙了，弟叨做堂官，就是本部的世官老爺們來，也沒有師生坐法。既是世交，你只依著我便了。」 Jia Zheng said, "My dear elder brother need not be too modest. I merely hold the position of a senior official; even when old officials from our family come to this ministry, there is no such thing as a teacher and student sitting together." "Since we are old friends by family ties, you should just follow my lead." |
| 7 | 甄寶玉不敢再讓，只得打一千，告了坐，然後同賈政隔著茶幾一字兒坐下來。賈政先將安撫的事逐件問過，又問過了公爺的近好，就將甄公保舉的信也細細地問了，就說：「摺子上去了沒有？」 Zhen BaoYu dared not insist further and could only bow deeply, then asked for permission to sit. Afterward, he sat down across from Jia Zheng at the tea table, keeping a respectful distance between them. Jia Zheng first inquired about the pacification matters one by one, then asked after the well-being of the noble lord. He also carefully questioned about the letter recommending Master Zhen and said, "Has the memorial been submitted yet?" |
| 8 | 甄寶玉說：「遞過了。」外面林之孝進來回道：「薛府裏的恭二爺要進來會會甄少爺。」賈政便曉得，是香菱處得了信，叫薛蝌過來問話的，便告訴甄寶玉道：「這就是貴本家的令親薛二哥。貴本家的令婿便是他的令兄，這是敝房下的外甥，也就是二小媳的哥子。」 Zhen BaoYu replied, "It has already been delivered." From outside, Lin Zhixiao entered and reported, "Young Master Gong from the Xue household wishes to come in to meet Young Master Zhen." Jia Zheng immediately understood that this was because Xiangling had received the news and sent Xue Ke to come over for a visit. He informed Zhen BaoYu, saying, "This is your cousin's relative, Young Master Xue Erge." "Your cousin's son-in-law is his elder brother. This young man here is my nephew, and also the older brother of my second daughter-in-law." |
| 9 | 甄寶玉道：「這位士隱先生已經同家大人敘出譜誼，本來一家分支，恰好同家大人弟兄輩分也好得很，侄兒因士隱先生小了家大人幾歲，也叫二叔。二家叔原吩咐侄兒見過了老伯，就往薛府上瞧舍妹去。不料薛二哥倒先施起來。」賈政益喜，忙請薛蝌進來，也叫賈璉、寶玉、蘭哥兒出來，陪了吃飯敘話。賈政便自己到王夫人房裡，說出這許多事情來。恰好李紈、黛玉、寶釵都在那裏，這賈政先告訴黛玉說：「你的雨村先生從前在軍機處那麼樣喧赫，如今有人舉他，他倒決意入山去了。實在宦海波濤，經過了便也心驚膽顫，怪不得他。」又告訴薛寶釵說：「你們的太親翁士隱先生，一心高尚，不料而今建了這麼場功業，你令嫂得信後也不知怎麼樣地喜歡，將來你蟠大哥也有庇蔭，我心裡好不快樂。」王夫人也笑道：「這個實在夢想不到了。」賈政說完，仍舊到外面同甄寶玉講話去了。 Zhen BaoYu said, "This Master Shiyin has already established a genealogical relationship with my father. We are originally one family, just different branches. Fortunately, his generation is also well matched with the generation of my father's brothers and uncles. Since Master Shiyin is several years younger than my father, I call him Uncle Er." Uncle Er had originally instructed me that after paying respects to the elder uncle, I should go to the Xue residence to visit my younger sister. "Little did I expect that Young Master Xue would come first." Jia Zheng was even more pleased and quickly invited Xue Ke in, also calling Jia Lian, BaoYu, and Lan Ge'er to come out to accompany them for a meal and conversation. Jia Zheng then personally went to Madam Wang's room and told her about all these matters. Coincidentally, Li Wan, Daiyu, and Baocai were all there. Jia Zheng first told Daiyu, "Your Master Yucun was once so prominent in the Military Affairs Office; now that someone has recommended him, he has instead firmly decided to go into the mountains." "Indeed, once one experiences the turbulent waves of officialdom, it is natural to feel frightened and shaken. No wonder he did this." He then told Xue Baocai, "Your great maternal grandfather, Master Shiyin, is a man of lofty virtue. Unexpectedly, he has now achieved such remarkable feats. After receiving the news, your sister-in-law must be overjoyed beyond measure. In the future, your elder brother Pan will also benefit from this protection and favor. I am truly delighted." Madam Wang also smiled and said, "This is really beyond our wildest dreams." After finishing his conversation, Jia Zheng went back outside to continue talking with Zhen BaoYu. |
| 10 | 這裏寶釵便道：「我們這位大嫂子，本來是個可憐兒的，從前受的氣是說不盡的了，而且背了人常常哭泣。不知道的只說她為了哥哥出門在外，故此這樣。其實哥哥在家時候她也淡得很，一家子也猜不出她什麼意思。我們姑嫂情分原也好，背地裏問著她，也不肯說。從前是不必說的，到後來扶正了還是那麼著。我倒問她說：『嫂子，你而今還有什麼委屈呢？』她只說出一句傷心的話，說道：『姑娘，我而今倒反不配呢。』而今想起來件件明白了，原來，只為的生身父親沒有個蹤跡兒。她而今該樂，不知樂到什麼分兒。」 Baocai then said, "Our eldest sister-in-law was originally a pitiable person. The mistreatment she endured in the past is beyond description, and she often wept behind closed doors." Those who did not know would only think that it was because of her brother being away from home that she behaved this way. In truth, even when her brother was at home, she remained very indifferent; the whole family could not figure out what she meant by it. My sister-in-law and I have always had a good relationship, but when we asked her in private, she would not say anything either. Needless to say about the past; even after later being officially recognized as a wife, she remained just the same. I once asked her, "Sister-in-law, is there still anything that troubles you now?" She only said one heartbreaking sentence: "Miss, I am no longer worthy now." Now that it has come to light, everything is clear. It was all because her biological father had no trace or whereabouts. "She should be happy now; I wonder how joyful she must feel." |
| 11 | 王夫人嘆口氣道：「這纔算個孝女兒，也可憐見的，擺著你們一班兒姊妹，誰沒個娘家往來，便晴雯這孩子也有個借生的媽趕著叫。可憐見的，這孩子將來父女重逢了。」 Madam Wang sighed and said, "Only now can she be called a filial daughter. It is truly pitiable. Among you girls, who does not have some contact with their maternal family? Even the child Qingwen has a foster mother to call upon." "Pitiful indeed. This child will finally be reunited with her father in the future." |
| 12 | 黛玉道：「寶姐姐，評起來姨媽跟前我是個繼女兒，比不上你。告訴你，這姑嫂上面我倒還比你親密些。為什麼呢，她從前要跟著我學做詩，卻告訴我，教我不許告訴第二人，她悄悄地拉了我說：『你我這兩個人一樣的沒爹沒媽，一樣的無家可歸，瞧著個一群燕雀兒也淌淚。你只教我做幾句詩。』說幾句傷心話，我也一樣的傷心，從沒有告訴人。後來我們長大，哥來了，她又說：『林姑娘，咱們而今比不上了，你是有親哥哥來了。』我也暗地常悄悄地勸他。不料而今有個生身的父親出來了。」 Daiyu said, "Baocai, when it comes to comparing who is closer to Auntie, I am only an adopted daughter and cannot compare with you." "Tell you this—I actually have a closer relationship with my aunt than you do." "Why? She used to follow me to learn poetry, but she told me in secret not to tell anyone else. She quietly pulled me and said, 'You and I are both fatherless and motherless, both homeless; even seeing a flock of sparrows makes us shed tears.'" "Just teach me to compose a few lines of poetry." She said some heartbreaking words, and I felt just as heartbroken. I never told anyone about it. Later, when we grew up and my brother came, she said again, "Miss Lin, now we are no longer equal; you have your dear elder brother here." I also secretly and quietly comforted her. Little did I expect that now a biological father has appeared for her." |
| 13 | 黛玉一面說，眼圈也紅起來，也彈了幾滴淚。王夫人等只管歎息不提。外面賈政送了甄寶玉重新進來，只管稱贊甄寶玉不已，說：「現在的官兒，寶玉是個翰林衙門，他是個部曹衙門，但是他那個行為氣度還了得，禮節應對間更不必說了。」 While speaking, Daiyu's eyes also reddened and she shed a few tears. Madam Wang and the others could only sigh repeatedly; no more is said about it. Outside, Jia Zheng sent Zhen BaoYu back in and continued praising him without end, saying, "Now that they are both officials, BaoYu is an official of the Hanlin Academy, while he belongs to a ministry office. But still, his conduct and bearing are remarkable; as for his manners and responses, there's no need even to mention how excellent they are." |
| 14 | 便叫寶玉來，著實地數說了一頓，說道：「瞧著人家的孩子那麼好，你自己瞧瞧，算什麼！你說你得了聖卷升了官，告訴你知道，一會子考下來，全個兒去，完了還趕不上歸班進士呢。你瞧他那等見識，就算你也會胡謅幾句詩文，可知道士貴器識，而後文藝。他那個光景巴急起來，怕不做一個名臣榮宗耀祖。自己瞧瞧，比上他什麼！你這沒料兒的，你若心裏明白，快快地跟著他學。我教訓你，你懂不懂？」寶玉只得垂了手，答應一句：「懂得。」賈政就出去了。 He then called BaoYu over and scolded him thoroughly, saying, "Look at how excellent the other child is. Look at yourself—what are you?" "You say that you passed the imperial examination and were promoted. Let me tell you—after a short while of testing, your entire achievement will vanish, and even then you still won't catch up to those who have already become Jinshi." "Look at his level of knowledge. Even if you can also compose a few poetic lines, do you know that what is valued in scholars is their character and insight, only then comes literary talent?" "With his current ambition and urgency, he might well become a famous minister who brings honor to the family." "Look at yourself—how can you compare with him!" "You are so clueless. If your mind is clear, quickly follow and learn from him." "I am teaching you a lesson—do you understand or not?" BaoYu could only lower his hands and reply with one sentence, "I understand." Jia Zheng then left. |
| 15 | 王夫人等大家替寶玉不平起來。王夫人便同寶釵到薛姨媽家，替香菱賀喜。香菱也適纔會了甄寶玉，敘了兄妹，問了甄士隱許多備細，就請甄寶玉搬過來同居。王夫人等過去稱賀，香菱歡天喜地得了不得。薛姨媽也喜之不勝。卻說寶玉，被賈政無緣無故的發揮了一番，心裡想道：「老爺的教訓呢，原也應該。但只是甄寶玉這個祿蠹庸才，也沒有什麼稀罕。況且同他講論，一派游談，毫無實濟，追到真實地所在，就這正正經經的經史也只扯東曳西，東躲西閃。我若同姜、林兩兄同他談一刻，他也就登答不來。老爺這番賞識他，他可不要負了。」也就怏怏地來尋黛玉。不料黛玉因觸起亡過的爹媽，心裡煩惱，已經閉上房門，叫不開。寶玉也猜著了，又隔了門勸了好些。黛玉在裏面只說道：「是了，我這會子煩，你尋別人去吧。」 Madam Wang and the rest all felt it was unfair to BaoYu. Madam Wang then went with Baocai to Aunt Xue's home to congratulate Xiangling on her good fortune. Xiangling had just met Zhen BaoYu and established their sibling relationship, inquiring about many details regarding Zhen Shiyin. She then invited Zhen BaoYu to move in with them. When Madam Wang and others went over to congratulate her, Xiangling was overjoyed beyond words. Auntie Xue was also extremely delighted. Meanwhile, BaoYu had been scolded by Jia Zheng for no particular reason. In his heart he thought, "Father's reprimand is indeed justified." "But still, this Zhen BaoYu—this vulgar and mediocre man—is not really anything special or remarkable." Moreover, when discussing with him, all he spoke was idle talk, without any practical value. When it came to the real essence of things, even regarding the fundamental classics and histories, he could only ramble aimlessly, dodging left and right. "If I were to talk with him for a moment alongside my brothers Jiang and Lin, he would not be able to respond at all." "Father esteems him so highly; I hope he does not prove unworthy of it." With a sullen heart, BaoYu went to look for Daiyu. Unluckily, Daiyu had been reminded of her late parents and was in a foul mood; she had already locked the door to her room and would not open it. BaoYu guessed what was happening and tried to comfort her from outside the door for a long time. Inside, Daiyu only said, "Yes, I'm in a bad mood now; go find someone else." |
| 16 | 寶玉就悶悶地回到晴雯處歇下。寶玉雖則在晴雯處，卻一心挂著黛玉，便叫晴雯留著燈兒，寶玉就同晴雯歇下，只是翻來複去地睡不著，晴雯倒睡著了。到了二更時候，燈還亮著。忽然晴雯翻轉身抱著寶玉，鳴鳴咽咽地哭起來。寶玉驚得了不得，便也抱著她，問她：「為什麼這樣的傷心？你不要魘住了。」 BaoYu then returned sullenly to Qingwen's quarters and lay down. Although BaoYu was in Qingwen's quarters, he kept thinking about Daiyu. He asked Qingwen to keep the lamp lit and went to sleep with her, but could not fall asleep, tossing and turning all night; Qingwen, however, had already fallen asleep. By the second watch of the night, the lamp was still lit. Suddenly, Qingwen turned over and clung to BaoYu, sobbing quietly. BaoYu was greatly startled and immediately embraced her, asking, "Why are you so sad?" "You must not be haunted by nightmares." |
| 17 | 晴雯哽咽了半響，說道：「二爺，你不認得我了，我不是晴雯，是五兒。」寶玉嚇了一跳，定著神細細的瞧她聽她，果真是五兒的聲音。寶玉非但不怕，益發可憐她，說道：「我的心疼的五兒妹子，你怎麼能夠來了？」 Qingwen wept for a while before saying, "Master Er, you don't recognize me. I am not Qingwen; I am Wu'er." BaoYu was startled and, after regaining his composure, looked at her carefully and listened closely; indeed, it was Wu'er's voice. Not only did BaoYu not feel afraid, but he felt even more pity for her and said, "My beloved little sister Wu'er, how could you have come here?" |
| 18 | 五兒道：「我告訴二爺，我的壽限原只這樣注定的，將這個身子借給晴雯，我卻跟了鴛鴦姐姐在宗祠內侍候老太太。而今妙師父已成了妙靈佛了，也召了鴛鴦姐姐去做了神女，管那些忠孝節烈殉命的列女冊籍。我侍候老太太，益發不能脫身。老太太將來也要到佛會裏去的，常時也會著些真人講道。昨日說會著了一位蘭芝夫人，說算定，我同你前生前世做過一夜假夫妻，也要還了這一夕緣分。故此今日晚上叫晴雯去侍候了老太太，換我過來，只不許再見我媽。你告訴我媽，他往後只將晴雯當了我，再不要想我。我將來跟定了老太太，一樣也有好處，只慢慢地問史真人便知道。便是林姑娘同你也還有大家久聚地緣法兒。」 Wu'er said, "I must tell Master Er that my lifespan was originally destined to be so short. I have lent this body to Qingwen, while I myself follow Madam Yuanyang and serve Lady Jia in the ancestral temple." Now, Master Miao has become the Bodhisattva Miaoling. He also summoned Madam Yuanyang to be a goddess in charge of the records of virtuous women who died for loyalty, filial piety, chastity, and righteousness. I am now serving Lady Jia and cannot leave at all. Lady Jia will also go to the Buddhist assembly in the future, where she often meets with true sages who lecture on the Dao. Yesterday, she met a Lady Lanzhi, who said that it was foretold: in our past lives, I and you were once an illusory married couple for one night, and this karmic bond must now be repaid. Therefore, today evening they had Qingwen go to serve Lady Jia so that I could come over instead. But it is strictly forbidden for me to see my mother again. You must tell my mother that from now on, she should regard Qingwen as me and no longer think of me. In the future, I will be devoted to serving Lady Jia; it is also good for me. Just ask Master Shi slowly and you will know. "Even Lin Ge'er and you still have the karmic connection to be together for a long time." |
| 19 | 寶玉聽了，非但不傷，而且歡喜，重新將從前遇仙的話說起來，說：「從前是對著你想晴雯，而今又映著從前的親愛你。」那一夜的歡娛燕好自不必說。到了五更，五兒就說要去。寶玉道：「你可好替老太太說明了，時常與晴雯兩下裏替換著，或是半月一換，或是十天一換，老太太也有個人侍候，咱們也可常敘，豈不是好！」 After hearing this, BaoYu did not feel sad at all but was instead delighted. He recounted again the story of meeting a fairy in the past and said, "Before, I thought of Qingwen while looking at you; now, your former affection for me is reflected once more." Needless to say, that night was filled with joy and intimacy. By the fifth watch of the night, Wu'er said she had to leave. BaoYu said, "You must kindly explain to Lady Jia that Qingwen and I can take turns serving her—either once every half month or once every ten days. This way, Lady Jia will always have someone to attend to her needs, and we can also meet often. Would this not be good!" |
| 20 | 五兒道：「這是注定的，只有這一夜夫妻緣分，連母女也不能講一句話兒。你若念我，只要依了林姑娘、晴雯，還我真身立個碑就是了，我往後也沒有什麼缺願兒。」 Wu'er said, "This is predestined; there can only be the karmic bond of one night as husband and wife. Not even mother and daughter may exchange a single word." "If you miss me, all you need to do is follow Lin Ge'er and Qingwen—restore my true body and erect a monument for me. After that, I will have no further regrets." |
| 21 | 寶玉還捨不得，只見五兒蒙蒙地睡去，倒弄醒了，仍舊是晴雯。晴雯倒笑起來道：「二爺，你同五兒妹妹敘得好不好？寶玉益發樂起來。晴雯道：「老太太告訴你，說你不久還有奇遇。你只自己保重好了。」 BaoYu was still reluctant to let go when he saw Wu'er gradually fall asleep. But she suddenly woke up again, and it was once more Qingwen. Qingwen laughed and said, "Master Er, did you have a good time talking with your sister Wu'er?" BaoYu became even happier. Qingwen said, "Lady Jia told me that you will soon have a strange and wondrous encounter." "Just take good care of yourself." |
| 22 | 寶玉、晴雯趕天明了，先告訴柳嫂子，也悲喜不勝。又即告訴黛玉，又告訴王夫人。一家統不信，只說寶玉掉謊兒。只有史湘雲正正經經說：「果真的。」 When dawn broke, BaoYu and Qingwen first told Liu Pozi the news, who was overwhelmed with both sorrow and joy. They also immediately informed Daiyu and Lady Wang. The whole family disbelieved them, saying only that BaoYu was lying. Only Shi Xiangyun said earnestly, "It is indeed true." |
| 23 | 卻說香菱自從接了父親家信，十分喜歡。又得了旨意，甄士隱建立大功，賞給二品職銜，就授了海關監督，三年期滿，候召見大用，香菱更覺喜歡。連次地要請甄寶玉過來，無奈甄寶玉再三不肯。原來甄寶玉為人外面謙恭道學，一派斯文，其實紈習氣，瞞了他的父親甄應嘉，背地里無所不為，喝酒宿娼只當做穿衣吃飯。賈寶玉在婦女中間只重一個情字，從不肯沾染分毫。這甄寶玉便不然，不論男女，無不留心，倒也沒有什麼情。只過去了便忘記的，而且不擇精粗美惡，遇著他高興的時候，鬧得出奇出格。就學問上面也是個假的，原有些小聰明，謅得幾句，也要先生粉飾了纔拿出手來。就他所得功名也不明白，也有人說遇著窗稿的。真個的人不可以貌取，誰能辨出他的底子來。甄寶玉與香菱、薛蝌見過，看見薛家也是個清肅家風，如何肯來居住，倒反合了傻大舅王仁、賈薔、賈芸這一班匪類，說得投機，就一同喝酒嫖娼，朝歌暮樂，還想來勾寶玉的李瑤過去，李瑤如何肯去。 Meanwhile, Xiangling had been very happy since receiving a letter from her father. She also received an imperial decree: Zhen Shiyin had been awarded a second-rank official title for establishing great merit, and was appointed as the supervisor of the customs office. After serving three years, he would be summoned to court for a major appointment. Xiangling felt even happier at this news. She repeatedly wanted to invite Zhen BaoYu over, but unfortunately, Zhen BaoYu refused time and again. Originally, Zhen BaoYu appeared outwardly modest and scholarly, full of Confucian propriety and refined manners. In truth, however, he was a wastrel with bad habits. He had deceived his father, Zhen Yingjia, and behind the scenes did nothing but drink heavily and visit prostitutes, treating such behavior as routine as eating and dressing. Among women, Jia BaoYu valued only the word "qing" (emotion), and had never been willing to be tainted in the slightest. This Zhen BaoYu, however, was quite different; he paid attention to both men and women without discrimination, but did not possess any genuine emotion. Once he had passed the moment, he would forget everything; moreover, he did not distinguish between refined or coarse, beautiful or ugly. When in a good mood, he could behave outrageously and recklessly. Even in terms of scholarship, he was fake; originally possessing only a little cleverness, he would memorize a few lines and needed his teacher to embellish them before presenting them. He did not even understand the official position he had obtained; some said that he had merely come across a draft of an examination essay by chance. Indeed, one cannot judge a person solely by appearance—how could anyone discern his true nature? After meeting Xiangling and Xue Ke, Zhen BaoYu saw that the Xue family also had a clean and upright household style. How could he possibly wish to live there? Instead, he became close friends with his foolish uncle Wang Ren, Jia Qiang, Jia Yun, and other rascals. Finding them compatible in interests, they drank together, visited prostitutes, sang songs by day and enjoyed pleasures at night. Zhen BaoYu even wanted to bring Li Yao over from BaoYu's side, but how could Li Yao possibly agree to go? |
| 24 | 那一日到賈政家，賈政倒十分地敬他，叫寶玉同去會會姜、林二位，可可的姜、林二人出門去了。甄寶玉打聽得賈政上班值宿，便打聽王仁、賈芸所在，兩輛車一直地放來，卻是一個妓女人家。進了門，便有老婆子迎接進去，隨有三箇女孩子統是十六七年紀，一擁地拉了他們到小屋子裏坐下。王仁、賈蕓也在那裏，滿桌子的酒菜，大家就呼天喝地猜起拳來。那三個妓女，一倪若水，一陳九官，一陸銀官，都來湊趣，無般百樣的話都說出來。這賈寶玉天天在姊妹行中，哪曾見這些村俗的光景，就坐立不定的，又不好意思走了，正要想個脫身的的法兒。那時候天也晚上來，月亮也起了。賈蕓道：「間壁有個妙人兒，咱們何不拉過來樂一樂。」 One day, when he went to the Jia Zheng's residence, Jia Zheng treated him with great respect and asked BaoYu to accompany Zhen BaoYu in meeting Mr. Jiang and Mr. Lin. Coincidentally, both Mr. Jiang and Mr. Lin had just left their homes. Zhen BaoYu learned that Jia Zheng was on duty at the government office, so he inquired about Wang Ren and Jia Yun's whereabouts. The two carriages proceeded directly to a brothel. Upon entering, they were greeted by an old woman and led inside. Soon after, three girls, all around sixteen or seventeen years of age, rushed forward and pulled them into a small room to sit down. Wang Ren and Jia Yun were already there, with a table full of wine and food. Everyone began shouting and drinking, playing the game of guessing fingers loudly. The three courtesans—Ni Ruoshui, Chen Jiuguan, and Lu Yinguan—all joined in the fun, saying all sorts of things. Jia BaoYu, who had always been among his sisters and female relatives, had never seen such vulgar scenes before. He became restless, yet felt too embarrassed to leave immediately, and was thinking of a way to escape. At that time, it had already grown late in the evening, and the moon had risen. Jia Yun said, "There is a wonderful person in the next room; why don't we bring her over for some fun?" |
| 25 | 原來間壁有一位堂客，叫做芮菊英，父親芮四相公開過故衣鋪，一生愛唱個曲兒，結交清客，單生這一女，也學會了多少清曲。芮四相公亡過，家道艱難，這芮姑娘就嫁了一個外館的趙先生。那些清客前輩統讚她這個嗓子，遇著勝會，也請她出來，相貌卻是中中的。賈蕓說起她來，就說她這個人兒曲子卻好，卻是鬧不得的。甄寶玉就立時立刻地叫賈蕓去邀了過來。那芮姑娘也就家常衣服走了過來。大家見過了，坐下來喝了茶，唱了一折「廊會」，合座都喝采。賈寶玉便想道：「可惜這麼個人兒，埋沒在這裏，還不知那趙先生配得上配不上。若遇了個粗蠢不堪的，也算邯鄲才人嫁與廝養卒了。」心上正在那裡可憐兒她，那甄寶玉便朦朧了醉眼，漸漸地要動手動腳起來。芮姑娘看出光景，便推身上不便立起來走回去了。甄寶玉哪裏顧得，趁著醉就一直跟了過去，坐定了要在那邊過夜，王仁也跟著去胡說亂道。還是賈芸怕事，陪著寶玉坐在這裏。不多一會，芮姑娘就變臉來，可可的趙先生也回來了。趙先生恨得很，就悄悄地告訴堆子上。頃刻間，就有人來，將甄寶玉捆了去，幸喜地逃了王仁。賈寶玉聽見也著慌了，怕的乾連著，不敢回家，就帶了李瑤到賈蕓家中住下了聽信。 Originally, in the next room there was a lady named Rui Juying. Her father, Rui Sihuang, had once operated an antique clothing shop and loved to sing songs all his life; he also associated with refined guests. He had only this one daughter, who had learned many elegant tunes as well. After Rui Sihuang passed away, the family fell into hardship, and Miss Rui married a Mr. Zhao who taught at an external school. Her voice was praised by all the elder refined guests, and whenever there were important gatherings, they would invite her to perform. Her appearance, however, was only average. When Jia Yun spoke of her, he said that although she had a wonderful voice, she was not the type to be involved in such rowdy behavior. Zhen BaoYu immediately asked Jia Yun to go and invite her over right away. Miss Rui came over in plain, everyday clothes. After everyone greeted each other and sat down to have tea, she sang an excerpt from "Lang Hui," and the whole room applauded. Jia BaoYu thought to himself, "It is a pity that such a person should be buried away here; I wonder whether Mr. Zhao is even worthy of her." "If she had met a man who was coarse and clumsy, it would be like the talented woman from Handan marrying a lowly foot soldier." While Jia BaoYu felt sympathy for her in his heart, Zhen BaoYu had already become drowsily drunk and gradually began to make advances toward her. Miss Rui noticed the situation and excused herself, standing up and leaving immediately. Zhen BaoYu paid no heed and, still drunk, followed her all the way there. He insisted on staying overnight at her place, and Wang Ren went along to make wild remarks as well. It was only Jia Yun who feared trouble and stayed behind with BaoYu here. Not long after, Miss Rui's expression changed, just as Mr. Zhao happened to return home. Mr. Zhao was very angry and secretly reported the matter to the local guards. In a moment, people arrived and took Zhen BaoYu away in chains; fortunately, Wang Ren managed to escape. Hearing the news, Jia BaoYu became very anxious and feared being implicated. He dared not return home but instead took Li Yao to stay at Jia Yun's house while waiting for further developments. |
| 26 | 這裏榮國府中，見寶玉一夜不回，又像從前走失了的，嚇也嚇死。尋了一夜沒個影兒，打發人到甄寶玉寓中，又說甄寶玉現在寓中，昨夜分路走的。不多一會，又聽見沸沸揚揚傳將來，說榮國府中的寶玉因酒後強奸婦女，已被堆子上捆送到城上去，差不多奏明了就發刑部衙門。王夫人一家子聽了，嚇得魂不附體。王夫人、寶釵、晴雯、紫鵑、鶯兒哭得天愁地慘，襲人也著實的傷。只有黛玉冷冷的。眾人自李紈以下都悄悄議論她，心腸就硬到這樣。賈政有公事沒回，慌得賈璉、林良玉、姜景星也騎著馬分頭打聽。只見賈璉趕回來，喘呼呼地說道：「事情是真的了。寶兄弟現被人關著，不許見面，看來要鬧穿的了。」黛玉聽見了，也只訕訕地走了去。王夫人等就哭得要死。正在鬧著，只見素芳哭進來，說道：「了不得了，林姑娘服毒死了。」 Meanwhile, in the Rongguo Mansion, they saw that BaoYu had not returned for a whole night and feared he might have been lost again, just like before. They were terrified out of their wits. They searched all night without finding a trace of him and sent people to Zhen BaoYu's residence. They were told that Zhen BaoYu was indeed at his lodgings, but had parted ways with Jia BaoYu the previous night. Not long after, they heard loud and widespread news that Jia BaoYu from the Rongguo Mansion had been arrested by the guards for allegedly raping a woman while drunk. He was already being sent to the city authorities and would soon be reported to the Ministry of Justice for trial. Upon hearing this, Lady Wang and her entire family were so frightened that they lost their wits entirely. Lady Wang, Baochai, Qingwen, Zijuan, Ying'er wept until the heavens and earth seemed to mourn with them. XiRen was also deeply grieved. Only Daiyu remained cold and indifferent. Everyone, from Li Wan down to the others, secretly discussed her behind her back—her heart had become so hardened. Jia Zheng was away on official business and could not return, so Jia Lian, Lin Liangyu, and Jiang Jingxing were all in a panic. They rode their horses separately to investigate the situation. Just then Jia Lian rushed back, panting and said, "The matter is true." "Bao'er is currently being held by the authorities and cannot see anyone. It seems this scandal will become a full-blown affair." Upon hearing this, Daiyu merely gave a sardonic smile and walked away quietly. Lady Wang and the others wept as if they were about to die. Just then, Sufang burst in crying and said, "It's terrible! Lin Ge'er has poisoned herself and died." |
| 27 | 王夫人等說不出話來，就一氣地奔過去，纔曉得黛玉服的是鶴頂紅，一挂朝珠還扯散了滿地。王夫人、寶釵等就跌腳大哭起來。王夫人抱著黛玉叫道：「我的心疼的孩子，你寶玉的罪名還沒有定下，你何苦地走這條路。你走上這條路，我也不要活了，跟了你去吧。」眾人都哭得要死過去了。史湘雲連忙走過來，眾人已忘記了她有道術，倒是探春、惜春一望見她，使一把拉住說，」好得很，你來了，你快快地救她。」 Lady Wang and the others were speechless with shock and rushed over immediately. They found out that Daiyu had taken Hedinghong (a poison), and a string of her official beads was torn apart, scattered on the ground. Lady Wang, Baochai and others fell to their knees and wailed loudly. Lady Wang clutched Daiyu and cried, "My beloved child, BaoYu's guilt has not yet been decided. Why must you take this path?" "If you have taken this road, I do not wish to live either—I will follow you there." Everyone was weeping as if they had died. Shi Xiangyun hurried over, and the crowd had already forgotten that she possessed magical arts. Upon seeing her, Tan Chun and Xi Chun immediately grabbed her hands and said, "That's good! You've come—quickly save her!" |
| 28 | 史湘雲不慌不忙，取過一杯茶來，喝了一口，望著黛玉一噴，喝一聲：「醒！」便叫眾人住了哭：「不妨事的。倒不要扶她睡下，只扶她坐直了。」一個時辰，黛玉就漸漸的醒過來了。只聽見外面一片聲說寶二爺回來了，眾人倒反驚駭。只見寶玉好端端地走進來。見眾人圍著黛玉，也不知什麼緣故，也就走近來。這黛玉一見了寶玉，只道他果真的差押了，賈璉託人保回來，就要進刑部監的，真個死離生別，爭此一刻，就顧不得眾人抱住寶玉放聲大哭。眾人也勸不住，好些時王夫人上來勸住了，叫寶玉說出鬧的事情。寶玉氣得亂跳起來，道：「全是甄寶玉乾的事情，我被房師留住了，在房師處住了一夜，如何將甄寶玉的事裝在我賈寶玉身上！」 Shi Xiangyun remained calm and composed. She took a cup of tea, drank a mouthful, looked at Daiyu, and sprayed it toward her while shouting, "Wake up!" She then told the crowd to stop crying: "There is no danger." "Do not carry her to lie down; just help her sit upright." After one shichen (two hours), Daiyu gradually regained consciousness. Just then, a commotion outside announced that Bao'er had returned, which startled everyone even more. They saw BaoYu walking in calmly and normally. Seeing the crowd gathered around Daiyu, he did not know what had happened but approached them nonetheless. As soon as Daiyu saw BaoYu, she thought he had indeed been arrested and was about to be sent to the Ministry of Punishment's prison after Jia Lian had arranged for someone to secure his release. Believing they were truly facing a deathly parting and wanting to spend this final moment together, she forgot all else and threw herself into BaoYu's arms, wailing loudly. No one could stop her. After some time, Lady Wang came over and finally calmed them down, urging BaoYu to explain what had happened. BaoYu was so angry he jumped up and said, "It is all Zhen BaoYu who did those things. I was detained by my landlord teacher and stayed at his place overnight. How could they blame me, Jia BaoYu, for the deeds of Zhen BaoYu?" |
| 29 | 眾人還不信，賈璉也趕進來，說：「是真個的，真正與寶兄弟無干，原是甄寶玉鬧的事。他到了指揮衙門供說姓保名玉，官兒問他可住在榮國府，他想沾咱們的光，就順口兒答應了，面貌也像得很，故此就訛傳起來。」 The crowd still did not believe him, and Jia Lian hurried in to say, "It is true. It has nothing to do with my dear brother BaoYu at all—it was truly Zhen BaoYu causing the trouble." "When he arrived at the Commandant's Office, he gave his name as Bao Yu. The officials asked if he lived in the Rongguo Mansion, and hoping to benefit from our reputation, he carelessly answered yes. His appearance was also very similar, so the misunderstanding spread." |
| 30 | 王夫人等倒反大笑了一場。賈璉道：「而今老爺也知道了，為了安國公分上，也託人周旋他。只要原告說通，也就可以寬下心來的。」 Lady Wang and others burst into laughter at this. Jia Lian said, "Now the Master also knows about it. For the sake of his connection with Duke An Guo, we have already arranged for someone to help him out." "As long as the plaintiff is satisfied, it should be possible to resolve things without further trouble." |
| 31 | 賈璉又笑道：「只是他的底裏盡露，往後不好再叫真寶玉，倒只好叫一個假寶玉了。」 Jia Lian laughed again and said, "Only now has his true identity been revealed. From now on, he cannot be called Zhen BaoYu anymore; instead, we can only call him a fake BaoYu." |
| 32 | 李紈也笑道：「那麼著，我們的寶兄弟倒要叫做真寶玉，可不是挂一個通靈玉呢。」王夫人等一發大笑。倒只有林黛玉十分地不好意思。王夫人就將黛玉服毒之事告訴寶玉，寶玉很過不去。寶玉就恨道：「本來兩名字兒同得不好，兩個姓又姓得古怪，虧了我們雲妹妹，不然還了得！」 Li Wan also laughed and said, "Then our dear brother BaoYu must now be called Zhen BaoYU. Indeed, he is the one who wears the spiritual jade." Lady Wang and others laughed even more heartily. Only Lin Daiyu felt very embarrassed. Lady Wang then told BaoYu about the incident in which Daiyu had taken poison, and BaoYu was deeply upset. BaoYu angrily said, "It was originally bad enough that our names are so similar. To make matters worse, we also share the same surname! We owe a debt of gratitude to my sister Xiangyun; otherwise, this would have been even more disastrous!" |
| 33 | 王夫人就說道：「告訴你，她為你到這麼個分兒，你不要忘記了。我也在這裏，你們姊妹大家不許玩兒她，而今一家子喜喜歡歡的。若有人玩兒她，你們只管取笑我，我剛才也哭得要死過去的呢。」眾人也體諒著黛玉，也都依了王夫人，只背地裡說她待寶玉的情分，果然生死難分的，真算古往今來第一個情種了，怪不得寶玉也死死活活地粘住她。只有救她的史湘雲倒取笑她說：「你這個人兒被一個情字捆住了，還想修仙！」寶釵也低低地附她耳朵邊說道：「這也算個情蟲呢。」 Lady Wang then said, "I am telling you—she went to such lengths for you. Do not forget that." "I am also here, and none of you sisters are allowed to tease her anymore. Now we are all a happy family." "If anyone teases her, you may just laugh at me. I was also crying as if I had died not long ago." Everyone felt sympathy for Daiyu and followed Lady Wang's words. Behind her back, they would say how deeply attached she was to BaoYu—truly inseparable in life and death. She was indeed the greatest lover of all time, no wonder BaoYu clung to her so desperately. Only Shi Xiangyun, who had saved her, teased her and said, "You are so bound by love that you cannot even hope to become an immortal!" Baochai also whispered in her ear, "This is truly a creature of love." |
| 34 | 黛玉只是笑著。寶玉就益發地感激入骨。當下王夫人留史湘雲、寶釵、寶玉三人相伴黛玉，自己便走過來，恰好賈政也回來了。大家說起來，倒也大笑了一番。王夫人也將寶玉外邊過夜的事情瞞過了，說道：「好個真寶玉，璉兒說得好，只好反叫假寶玉了。咱們的寶玉也還真材實料的，老爺還叫寶玉跟著他學，虧得沒有學上來。」 Daiyu only smiled. BaoYu became even more deeply grateful. At that moment, Lady Wang asked Shi Xiangyun, Baochai, and BaoYu to stay with Daiyu. Just then, she came over, and coincidentally Jia Zheng had also returned. When they talked about it together, everyone laughed heartily for a while. Lady Wang also concealed the fact that BaoYu had spent a night outside, saying, "What an authentic BaoYu! Lian'er was right—only now can he be called the fake BaoYu." "Our BaoYu is still genuine and solid. The Master even asked BaoYu to study with him, but fortunately he did not learn anything." |
| 35 | 賈政倒不好意思，轉想道：「太太這麼護著他，不要他也去鬧什麼來？」就叫人請寶二爺，一面告訴王夫人道：「那甄寶玉也家教不嚴，以致如此。我還要狠狠地教訓寶玉，你們不要護了。」也叫賈璉、林良玉、姜景星大家留心。又說：「甄寶玉這樣荒唐，虧得李綺親事沒有定准。而今事情是不妨了，就完官司補了官，也沒出息。」 Jia Zheng felt a bit embarrassed and thought to himself, "If the Lady is so protective of him, perhaps he should not cause any trouble either?" He then had someone summon Bao'er and told Lady Wang, "That Zhen BaoYu also has a lax family upbringing, which led to this situation." "I must still give BaoYu a severe lesson. Do not protect him anymore." I also want Jia Lian, Lin Liangyu, and Jiang Jingxing to be on their guard. He added, "Zhen BaoYu has acted so recklessly; fortunately, Li Qi's marriage arrangement was not finalized." "Now that the matter is settled without serious consequences, even if he completes his legal case and resumes office, it still shows no promise." |
| 36 | 正說著，傳說寶玉和詩時御賜的物件有中使齎了來，也有了升官的旨意。一家子都到王夫人房中，賈政打算接過旨，重新將寶玉教訓一番，也不顧一家子護著他。不知賈政如何教訓寶玉，且聽下回分解。 Just as they were speaking, word came that the items bestowed by the Emperor during BaoYu's poetry contest had been delivered by imperial messengers, along with an edict granting him a promotion. The whole family gathered in Lady Wang's room, and Jia Zheng intended to accept the imperial decree and give BaoYu another scolding, regardless of everyone else trying to protect him. What kind of lesson Jia Zheng would give BaoYu remains to be seen in the next chapter. |
URN: ctp:ws51452
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